RORγt⁺ innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are crucial players of innate immune responses and represent a major source of interleukin-22 (IL-22), which has an important role in mucosal homeostasis. The signals required by RORγt⁺ ILCs to express IL-22 and other cytokines have been elucidated only partially. Here we showed that RORγt⁺ ILCs can directly sense the environment by the engagement of the activating receptor NKp44. NKp44 triggering in RORγt⁺ ILCs selectively activated a coordinated proinflammatory program, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), whereas cytokine stimulation preferentially induced IL-22 expression. However, combined engagement of NKp44 and cytokine receptors resulted in a strong synergistic effect. These data support the concept that NKp44⁺ RORγt⁺ ILCs can be activated without cytokines and are able to switch between IL-22 or TNF production, depending on the triggering stimulus.

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MRI scanning with an implanted Vibrant Soundbridge has possible major side effects, but did not affect cochlear function in this series.

Although MRI scanning (at 1.5 tesla [T]) with the FMT in place did not lead to adverse effects in the two patients, systematic in vitro studies are required to determine a possible magnetization threshold that could impair the VS function when MRI scans are applied in those patients. The microscopically observed erosions of the long process of the incus after 4 years of FMT clamp fixation show similarities to findings after stapes revision surgery. However, this limited experience in one case does not allow us to make conclusions on the long-term stability of the incus fixation.

We conclude that Ethisorb is a useful alternative material in the treatment of frontal skull base defects.